If you’re in the market for a new roof, you’ve likely heard that there are two types of asphalt shingles:
Architectural and 3-tab. You’ve also probably heard that architectural shingles are one of the most popular roofing solutions in America due to their durability, cost, and appearance.
Before hiring a roofing service to put a new roof on your house, you should understand why architectural shingles are the preferred asphalt shingle style today. This will enable you to make an informed financial decision and ensure you get a functional and eye-catching roof that you’ll be happy with for many years to come.
Asphalt shingles are made by layering fiberglass between asphalt and ceramic-covered granules. In addition to being sturdy, asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing materials in the United States, which makes them the go-to option for most homeowners.
Are Architectural Shingles Better Than 3-tab Roof Shingles?
Absolutely. Architectural shingles contain no cutouts, their lower portions are laminated with an additional layer of asphalt, and they come in many different sizes and shapes. All of this makes them more durable and versatile than regular 3-tab shingles and gives them a more premium look.
If your budget allows it, you should always opt for architectural shingles. The increased durability, property value, and functionality, architectural shingles bring are more than enough to justify the higher upfront cost.
What are the Differences Between Architectural and 3-tab Shingles?
Architectural Shingles Feature:
Their layers are bonded with asphalt sealant. This makes them sturdier and more waterproof than standard shingles.
They can withstand wind speeds of 110-130 mph, whereas regular asphalt shingles are rated for wind speeds of 60mph.
They last 50 years or more in optimal climate conditions, provided that they’re installed and maintained properly. They tend to come with lifetime warranties.
They offer better value. Due to being highly resilient and providing superior waterproofing, architectural shingles ensure long-term savings.
They can boost the value of your property. Architectural shingles are more resilient and visually attractive, which makes them more appealing to property buyers.
They come in many different shapes and sizes. This makes them the ideal option for unusually shaped roofs or homeowners who want to give their roofs a more unique look.
3-Tab Shingles Features:
They last 15-20 years when the climate is right and they’ve been installed correctly. The warranty for 3-tab shingles usually ranges between 20 and 30 years.
They have a flat and uniform look, so they don’t offer nearly as much flexibility and opportunity for customization as architectural shingles do.
They’re getting phased out. Due to being outdated and of lower quality, most reputable roofing contractors will only install 3-tab shingles when that’s the only way to match other shingles or when Homeowners’ Associations specifically require them
For the past few years, double digit renewal rate increases and higher mandatory deductibles for Wind and Hail losses have become the norm, and many Insurance companies are non-renewing homes with 3-tab shingles or any other type of roof that is over 20 years old. Dozens of Companies have stopped writing Home-Only policies for new business submissions altogether.
Industry sources say this is simply the way Insurance companies are reacting and changing their underwriting philosophy due to 3 years of unsustainable losses on wind, rain and hail until the market stabilizes, however long that will takes is anybody’s guess.
Robert Feest
Robert J. Feest Insurance Agency
262-641-0644
www.RFeest.com
This article is from the
EY July 2025 Issue